Protein plays a crucial role in various body tissues, including your skin. This nutrient exists in all your cells, except your bile and urine. Some preliminary research indicates that protein may help in the treatment of acne, although more research is necessary to confirm this potential benefit. Talk to your doctor before taking protein supplements in an attempt to treat or prevent acne lesions.
Protein
Protein is a major component of your skin, as well as your glands, muscles and organs. Most people obtain adequate amounts of protein from a balanced diet. Natural sources of protein include beans, peanut butter, cheese, soy products, meat, fish and poultry. There is no evidence that a protein deficiency causes acne, although this nutrient may help to reduce acne breakouts. Two or three servings of protein-rich foods each day provide adequate amounts of protein for most people.
Acne
Whey protein contains a substance known as lactoferrin. Limited research suggests that lactoferrin may help improve acne conditions, although further research is necessary, according to MayoClinic.com. Some people take brewer’s yeast as a type of protein supplement. The substances in brewer's yeast help to keep your skin healthy. The University of Maryland Medical Center says that the results of at least one study showed positive benefits using this protein supplement as a treatment for acne.
Vitamin A
Although there is no firm connection between a protein deficiency and acne,a protein deficiency may increase your risks of a vitamin A deficiency. Like protein, vitamin A helps to support the proper function of your skin. Acne treatments often contain vitamin A as a main ingredient. In addition to a protein deficiency, other conditions that may occur in conjunction with a vitamin A deficiency include diabetes, liver disorder and cystic fibrosis.
Precautions
Although some studies suggest that protein may help with acne, this nutrient is not a recognized remedy or standard treatment for acne. Too much protein from meat sources may increase your risk of developing gout or high cholesterol. Excessive amounts of protein in your diet may also put an unhealthy strain on your kidneys, warns MedlinePlus, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health. Consult your doctor to obtain an accurate diagnosis and proper medical treatment for your acne.
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